SCIENCE PROJECT Learner Book pg - 166 Bengal Tigers The Bengal Tiger, native to India and neighbouring regions, is a distinctive big cat known for its orange coat with black stripes. Thriving in diverse habitats, from dense forests to open grasslands, these tigers are adept swimmers, particularly in areas like the Sundarbans Delta. As apex predators, they play a crucial role in ecosystem balance by preying on herbivores. Facing threats like habitat loss and poaching, conservation efforts aim to protect their habitats and promote coexistence with local communities. Predator?? The tiger is a carnivore and prefers hunting large ungulates such as gaur, sambar, chital, barasingha, water buffalo, nilgai, serow and takin. Mediumsized prey includes wild boar, Indian hog deer, Indian muntjac and northern plains grey langur. They are ENDANGERED!! ■ Its Natural Environment Bengal tiger, (subspecies Panthera Tigris Tigris), subspecies of tiger (Pantheria Tigris) inhabiting the hot and humid forests, and wetlands of India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal. How are they Endangered? ■ What negative effect are people causing this animal at risk? Tigers have lost an estimated 95% of their historical range. Their habitat has been destroyed, degraded, and fragmented by human activities. The clearing of forests for agriculture and timber, as well as the building of road networks and other development activities, pose serious threats to tiger habitats. ■ Describe how the animal is at risk Bengal tigers are in danger because people are cutting down their homes, fighting with them, and hunting them for their body parts. The weather changing and pollution also make it hard for them to live. Save Tigers ■ Suggest how people can change their behaviour to make the animal safe again People can help Bengal tigers by supporting efforts to keep them safe. Choose responsible tourism, like visiting places that treat animals well. Tell others about the problems tigers face, and how everyone can help. Use less energy to reduce the impact on their homes. Respect the paths tigers use to move around and support laws that protect them. Don't buy things made from tigers, and help stop illegal hunting. These actions, when done together, can make a big difference in saving Bengal tigers.
